Our Mission is to provide our youth with the best possible opportunity to HAVE FUN while playing the sport of Ice Hockey. We will do this by: Providing a positive atmosphere for our youth to learn and grow through the activities associated with skating a

The Watertown Youth Hockey Learn to Skate program is for boys and girls who would like to learn the fundamentals of ice skating. The program is run by the professional instructors of the Sharper Edge Skating School. It is designed to develop strong basic skating skills (balance, stride, edges and stopping) as an introductory program for children interested in ice hockey. The 40 min per week lessons are ideal for children 4 years of age and up. Parents of children under 4 that are interested in the program are encouraged to contact Watertown Youth Hockey to discuss the eligibility of their child. No previous skating experience is necessary.

During class, children will be divided according to ability. These groups will develop various skills as they work their way through the Sharper Edge curriculum. As skills are mastered the children will move up to a more advanced group. The Learn to Skate program is an introductory program that will give children the skills necessary to move forward through the Watertown Youth Hockey system, eventually transitioning to Learn to Play and ultimately into the Travel hockey program.

Skaters have the option of registering for the full 16-week Season or for 8-week Sessions that start in November and January.

WHERE: John A. Ryan Arena, 1 Paramount Place, Watertown

COST: $200 for the full 16-week season; $125 for the 8-week session beginning in November or January.Discounts for siblings are provided.

LOGISTICS: Skaters will participate in a 40-minute lesson each Sunday starting at 11:40 a.m., 12:20 p.m., or 1:00 p.m. Once a start time is selected, skaters cannot change their designated session without permission from the Sharper Edge instructors and Watertown Youth Hockey.

USA HOCKEY REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. USA Hockey registration is free for children born in/after year 2011 and $48 for children born before year 2011.

HOW TO DRESS: It is easier to control your child's body temperature if you dress him/her in layers. Have your child wear loose comfortable clothing so that body movement will not be restricted. Snow pants are recommended to keep the skater from getting wet when he/she falls. Waterproof gloves or mittens are best so that their hands stay warm and dry.

HELMETS:For the safety of your child, an ICE HOCKEY HELMET (with a cage) must be worn at all times.

SKATES: You must supply your own skates. Skates must be sharp and must fit for the current season. “Double-runner” skates (2 blades each) are prohibited.